3-D Imaging for Arrhythmia
Sometimes our experts can stop or manage irregular heartbeats by using heat or extreme cold (ablation) to kill the abnormal cells causing the problem.
At the University of Maryland Heart and Vascular Center, we are known worldwide for using real-time, 3-D imaging to identify faulty heart cells causing complex arrhythmias.
We developed this approach and continue to research and refine its use, particularly for a dangerous condition called ventricular tachycardia (v-tach).
World-Recognized 3-D Imaging at the University of Maryland
Our real-time 3-D imaging provides better planning and results when using ablation to treat complex arrhythmias like ventricular tachycardia. We are recognized across the globe for this approach, with some of our accomplishments among the first of their kind ever achieved.
Our cardiologists work with radiologists and nuclear medicine specialists to provide highly detailed imaging scans. These test provide imaging of the heart’s structure and its function. We continue to research and improve this promising approach.
Benefits of 3-D Imaging for Ablation
3-D imaging can improve catheter ablation by making it:
- More accurate (abnormal tissues are better identified)
- Faster
- More effective
3-D imaging is particularly helpful when using ablation as the next step in ventricular tachycardia treatment. Many patients with this condition start with medication and an implantable defibrillator (ICD), but still regularly experience a rapid heartbeat.
The ICD protects these patients from cardiac arrest, but at the expense of receiving therapeutic shocks. While ablation typically does not cure ventricular tachycardia, with 3-D guidance our doctors can treat the most problematic heart areas, reducing the frequency of shocks.